Consonance

Consonance Knit Vest by Henna Markkanen

What is Being Made

Consonance is a cable-adorned women's vest designed by Henna Markkanen. This intermediate-level knitting project features a striking single 42-stitch cable pattern running down the center of both the front and back pieces. The vest is graded across ten sizes, with finished bust circumference measurements ranging from 33 inches to 50.5 inches, and is designed to be worn with 1 inch of positive ease at the bust for a comfortable, close-fitting silhouette.

Construction Method

Consonance is worked from the bottom up in separate pieces, allowing for straightforward assembly and customization during the knitting process. The front and back pieces are knitted individually before being sewn together. After the main pieces are joined, ribbing is worked directly onto the armhole openings and neck opening, creating a finished, polished edge. This construction approach is typical of intermediate knitting projects and provides clear shaping opportunities throughout the garment.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used in Consonance is Reverse Stockinette stitch, which creates a subtle, textured background that allows the cable work to stand out prominently. The centerpiece of the design is a single 42-stitch cable pattern that runs vertically down the middle of both front and back pieces, serving as the main visual feature of the vest. Ribbing is used on the armholes and neck opening to provide stretch, structure, and a professional finish to all openings.

Techniques

This pattern employs several intermediate knitting techniques. Cable knitting is the signature technique, requiring the knitter to work cable crosses as part of the 42-stitch repeat. Waist shaping is incorporated into the design, allowing the vest to follow the body's natural contours for a flattering fit. Seaming is used to join the front and back pieces together, and ribbing is worked in the round on live stitches after assembly, which requires proficiency with circular needles or double-pointed needles.

Yarn and Materials

Consonance is designed for DK weight yarn, a lightweight yarn that works well for fitted garments and allows stitch definition to shine through. The recommended gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in Reverse Stockinette stitch. Knitters will need appropriate needles sized to achieve this gauge, as well as a tapestry needle for seaming the pieces together. Circular needles or double-pointed needles are necessary for working the ribbing on the armholes and neck opening after the main pieces are assembled.

Pattern Details

• Ten sizes available: 33", 34.5", 37", 38.5", 41", 42.5", 45", 46.5", 49", and 50.5" finished bust circumference
• Square neckline for a modern, clean aesthetic
• Waist shaping for a fitted silhouette
• Designed for 1 inch of positive ease at the bust
• Intermediate difficulty level suitable for knitters with cable experience
• Downloadable PDF format for immediate access

Copyright 2013 Henna Markkanen. This pattern is for private, noncommercial use only.